A New Indonesia

A New Indonesia

From Rakyat Merdeka

From the beginning, the student movement had the sole
objective of removing Soeharto from the presidency and electing a
president according to the people's wishes. Their motto was to
abolish collusion, corruption and nepotism and implement total
reform. In the past two years people have enjoyed comprehensive
freedom of expression.

I think the following can now be done to support the
government:

1. Officials of governmental agencies and state-owned
companies should work as best as they can in their capacity of
civil servants.

2. Researchers should contribute to the people's welfare, e.g.
agriculturists should work to boost the export of chilies, kumis
kucing (herbs with diuretic properties), etc. Experts in economy,
marketing and languages should look for export opportunities
worldwide. Research institutes at universities and students
should also be involved in the effort.

3. Intellectuals and students in politics should form
laboratories at universities to study politics, apply all the
political theories and compile the people's wishes. This effort
should involve non-governmental organizations.

4. The House of Representatives and the People's Consultative
Assembly should be open to students to listen to debates and
channel their aspirations. Answers to questions should be given
according to a set schedule. An attitude of self-righteousness
should be avoided.

If we agree on the implementation of these points this nation
will see no more riots and conflicts. Only then can we head
together toward a New Indonesia.

IBNU SULAIMAN

Jakarta